Issue 11, 11.11.2010

first tee, firsthand page 24

vol. 1. issue 11

FREE

starrinG east bay athletes November 11, 2010

What cross country runners think about PG 9

NCS playoff predictions

FOOTBALL: PG 6 volleyBALL: PG 17

Freedom girls tennis’ big surprise PG 10 Red Zone: pinole valley — ultimate underdogs PG 19

Win this bike!

BIKE 87365 Big Bike Big Event

text

To

info, pg 31

RED ZONE

GET INTO IT

Don’t look now, but the underdog pinole valley football team, and WR nehemiah winston, is unbeaten. page 19

First Pitch .........................................................................6 SportStar of the Week ..................................................7 Wally’s World ..................................................................8 Locker Room ..................................................................9 Health Watch ................................................................13 Training Time .................................................................18 Red Zone: Gridiron Notes ........................................19 Tee2Green: Golf Notes ..............................................23

ON THE COVER California volleyball player Lauren Beyerle goes up for the block.

Phtoto by Bob Larson, LarsonPic@aol.com See story, Page 14

Twenty-Four7: Calendar .............................................25 Game Day: The Games You Have To See.................27 Impules: The Hottest New Products .......................28 4

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

Sup

om

Freedom high school, and Kendall MArkham, left, refused to back down on their way to their first girls tennis league title. page 19

San Ramon Valley’s Emily Reder

NCS volleyball preview. page 17 Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

5

Grading ourselves on our blind stabs & wild guesses Pinole Valley High football coach Steve yet. De La Salle was the easy choice.

Alameda was getting a hug from a supHowever, there was another undefeated porter as I called his name. team in the East Bay Athletic League The nine-year coach of the Spartans and after nine games: California. Yeah, we I made eye contact and I indicated I’d like picked them sixth. The teams play Nov. to interview him now that his team had just 12 on the Grizzlies home turf. We’re clinched its first Alameda Contra Costa sticking by our original predicition, Athletic League championship since 2006. though.

He walked over and I introduced myself.

Should De La Salle win, that would “Hi, Chace Bryson from SportStars make us 3-3 on the year. Now, we also Magazine.” made some volleyball predictions, too.

To which he quickly replied, “Oh right, And we actually did better in that sport. you’re the guys who picked us to finish We hit on four champions: Berkeley fourth.”

(ACCAL), Albany (Bay Shore Athletic Ah, yes. Preseason predictions. Those League), Campolindo (DFAL) and Footthings that writers forget about two weeks hill (EBAL). We missed on the BVAL, after they make them, while coaches and which Heritage won for the first time players commit them to instant memory. (we picked Deer Valley), and the DVAL, I laughed when Alameda wielded that which Berean Christian conquered over little dagger and playfully jabbed it in my Northgate and our pick, Clayton Valley. side. But it got me thinking how the first That gives SportStars a career predicSportStars football predictions were pantions record of 7-5. Take that, Coach ning out in other leagues.

Alameda!

So let’s go down the list, shall we?

Buoyed by our winning record to date, ACCAL: Well, as Alameda was happy here come a few more predictions since to point out, we goofed here. We picked the North Coast Section football playoffs Berkeley to finish first — and perhaps we will be underway by the time our next can push for half-credit since the Yellow issue comes out.

Jackets finished 7-3 with their only ACCAL NCS Division I: If you’re looking for loss coming against Pinole Valley on the some crazy prognostication here, forget last play of the game. about it. De La Salle should cruise to a BFL: Oof. Suddenly we’re 0-for-2. We 19th consecutive NCS crown. picked Valley Christian here. The Vikings Division II: Despite the fact that I’ll have had a tough year so far, going just 3-6 once again have to explain myself the through their first nine games. We did pick next time I attend a Pinole Valley game, Salesian to finish second and Berean ChrisI got a feeling this is Concord’s year. Go tian to finish third. The Pride and Eagles watch quarterback Ricky Lloyd in action, are both 4-0 in league and play for the Bay and you’re likely to feel the same way.

Football League title on Nov. 13.

Division III: This just might be the BVAL: OK, we’re on the board. We went Chace@ most competitive division across the with Pittsburg, who despite an 0-5 start, SportStarsMag.com board.

Our best guess is Marin Catholic have gone 4-0 in Bay Valley Athletic League will repeat as champions, quite possibly (925) 566-8503 action and can win the title outright with a by beating the same team it did in the win over Antioch in the Big Little Game on 2009 final, Encinal. Heading into their Nov. 13. Bonus credits: We picked Heritage season finale on Nov. 12, the Wildcats and Deer Valley to finish second and third, had a string of four consecutive shutouts respectively, which will also happen if the and had given up just one score (seven Patriots beat the Wolverines on Nov. 12. points) since Sept. 25. Defense wins DFAL: Bah! We put our faith in Las Lomas here, and it looks like the Diablo championships.

Foothill Athletic League crown will come Division IV: We didn’t pick Salesian down to whoever wins between Miramonte to win its league, but we will give them and Alhambra on Nov. 11. Perhaps our the NCS championship nod. We’re fickle biggest error in our DFAL predictions was like that. slotting Dougherty Valley to finish last. The Want to give us your NCS football Wildcats can lock up third place with a win predictions? Send ’em to us by emailover Dublin in their final game. ing editor@SportStarsMag.com. You DVAL: We said Ricky Lloyd would can just send us your predicted champs, or you can pass Concord to the title, and that’s what happened. The wait for the brackets to come out and pick them all the Minutemen are 8-1 and have assured themselves at least a way through.

The most accurate prognosticator will share of the Diablo Valley Athletic League crown. Thanks, win our respect — and a pair of lift tickets to one of two Ricky!

Lake Tahoe ski resorts. Good luck!

EBAL: This league championship hasn’t been decided

FIRST PITCH Chace Bryson Editor

6

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

PHONE 925.566.8500 FAX 925.566.8507 Editorial Editor@SportStarsMag.com Editor Chace Bryson. Ext. 104 • Chace@SportStarsMag.com Contributors Bill Kolb, Erik Stordahl, Mike Wolcott, Jim Mannion, Mitch Stephens, Dave DeLong, Gary Xavier, Angela Paradise, Doug Gardner, Matt Smith Photography Butch Noble, Bob Larson, Jonathan Hawthorn Creative Department Art@SportStarsMag.com Production Manager Mike DeCicco. Ext. 103 • MikeD@SportStarsMag.com Publisher/President Mike Calamusa. Ext. 106 • Mike@SportStarsMag.com Advertising & Calendar/Classified Sales Sales@SportStarsMag.com Account Executives Mike Wolcott Ext. 109 • MikeW@SportStarsMag.com; Patrick McCormick Ext. 102 • Patrick@SportStarsMag.com; Erik Stordahl • ErikS@Sport StarsMag.com (Special Sections, Calendar, Marketplace sales) Reader Resources/Administration Ad Traffic, Subscription, Calendar & Classified Listings info@SportStarsMag.com • Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Distribution/Delivery Mags@SportStarsMag.com Distribution Manager Butch Noble. Ext. 107 • Butch@SportStarsMag.com Information technology John Bonilla CFO Sharon Calamusa • Sharon@SportStarsMag.com Office Manager/Credit Services Deb Hollinger. Ext. 101 • Deb@SportStarsMag.com Board of Directors Dennis Erokan, CEO, Placemaking Group Roland Roos, CPA, Roland Roos & Co Susan Bonilla, State Assembly Drew Lawler, Managing Director, AJ Lawler Partners community SportStars™ Magazine A division of Caliente! Communications, LLC 5356 Clayton Rd., Ste. 222 • Concord, CA • 94521 info@SportStarsMag.com www.SportStarsMag.com

Caliente!

LLC

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER IN THE USA

Get noticed. Join today! www.SportStarsMag.com

your ticket to bay area sports admit one; rain or shine This Vol. #1, November 2010 Whole No. 11 is published by Caliente!

Communications, LLC, 5356 Clayton Rd, Ste. 222, Concord, CA 94521. SportStars™© 2010 by Caliente! Communications, LLC. All rights reserved. Subscription rates: 24 issues, U.S. 3rd class $42 (allow 3 weeks for delivery). 1st class $55. To receive sample issues, please send $3 to cover postage. Back issues are $4 each.

Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of Publisher is strictly prohibited. The staff and management, including Board of Directors, of SportStars™© does not advocate or encourage the use of any product or service advertised herein for illegal purposes. Editorial contributions, photos and letters to the editor are welcome and should be addressed to the Editor. All material should be typed, double-spaced on disk or email and will be handled with reasonable care. For materials return, please enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope. SportStars™© and STARS!™© Clinics are registered trademarks of Caliente! Communications, LLC.

Read Me. Recycle Me. Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

of the week

ricky lloyd

powered by:

concord . football . senior

nominate your star at editor@sportstarsmag.com

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

It’s one thing to win and, yet, it’s quite another to win big. Just ask Ricky Lloyd and the Concord High football team.

Lloyd pioneers arguably the most exciting offense in the East Bay this season.

Through the first 10 weeks, the Minutemen were 8-1 (4-0 in Diablo Valley Athletic League play) and had outscored league opponents 254-64. The Southern Miss-bound quarterback paced Concord to a blistering 78-12 victory at Northgate on Nov. 5 by throwing for 312 yards and picking up five touchdowns (four passing, one rushing). With one game remaining in the regular season against Ygnacio Valley, Concord is on the verge of winning the DVAL title outright.

SportStars: Who does your team model its game after?

Ricky Lloyd: We model our offensive tempo after Oregon. I wouldn’t want to be in any other offense.

SportStars: Explain the chemistry you have with your wide receivers.

RL: We’re one big family. We hang out on weekends, we text. After practice we like to go out and have fun.

SportStars: Have you ever thrown up in practice?

RL: Yes, my first practice with varsity was a two-a-day. I ate too much before the second practice and I started getting nervous.

SportStars: You guys lost to YV last year. What will it take to beat them?

RL: We just have to act like it’s another game and keep the same state of mind. We need to go in relaxed and ready to play.

RICKY’S QUICK HITS Favorite hobby: Drawing Best postgame meal: Bambino’s Best pregame music: Whatever Alec Pica picks.

— Erik Stordahl

honorable mention

Monique Riley The junior shot a 2-overpar 74 to lead the Amador Valley girls golf team to first place at the NCS Division I Tournament of Champions at Lone Tree Golf Course on Nov. 1. Riley was one of four Dons to finish in the 70s.

grant jones A senior wide receiver for Ygnacio Valley, Jones heavily contributed in handing Northgate its first loss of 2010 on Oct. 29.

He caught seven passes for 137 yards and three touchdowns in a 55-14 Warriors victory.

Daniel Thomas The 19-yearold CYC boxer was named Amateur Boxer of the Year by the Northern California Veteran Boxers Association on Oct. 30 at the Italian American Hall in San Francisco.

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

7

It’s not “Torture”, it’s just “Ridiculous”

Q

uestion: What orange-and-black-clad Bay Area sports team is sitting on top of the world these days?

If you answered the San Francisco Giants, you’d be … well, right.

But the Giants have company. Big company.

Big, undefeated, the orange-is-so-bright, yougotta-wear-shades company.

Something very special is happening in San Ramon, and it’s set up a Nov. 12 football showdown that probably no one outside the hallways of California High could have possibly seen coming.

With their 49-7 shellacking of Foothill on a cool night in Pleasanton last week, the Grizzlies carry a perfect 9-0 record into Friday night’s East Bay Athletic League championship game in San Ramon against (drumroll, please) De La Salle, which also stands at 9-0.

Two unbeaten teams. One night, one league championship on the line.

Is this the year? Could a Bay Area team have an honest-to-goodness chance of knocking off De La Salle, something no local team has done since Pittsburg’s victory in the 1991 North Coast Section final?

8

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

(1991. Nineteen years ago. To put this into context, that was before any current high school football player had so much as left the womb.)

Until someone actually beats De La Salle in one of these games, the Spartans are always going to be the favorite. But regardless of what happens Friday night, the Grizzlies’ season is already one for the record books.

And, especially, the highlight reel.

This is a team that plays with over-the-top intensity, puts up points in a hurry, rolls up crazy yardage (539 against Foothill) and comes up with hits that even impacts people on the sidelines.

No, really.

For example, midway through the first quarter Friday night, with the score still tied 7-7, Foothill tried a short swing pass. Cal defensive back Brian Krause timed the play perfectly, throwing himself full-bore and shoulder-first into the Falcons’ receiver the second the ball hit the receiver’s fingertips. The ball bounced one way, the receiver went another and the very vocal orange-andblack-clad visiting section went ballistic.

But the play wasn’t over — especially for Krause.

Second-year Cal coach Eric Billeci was so

ecstatic over Krause’s play, he bounded into action himself. Briefly leaving the sideline, he threw himself airborne into Krause, knocking him sideways and neatly recreating the play just made by his defensive back.

It just might have been the two hardest hits of the game, and it said everything about a program that never stops attacking.

Billeci, himself a product of the De La Salle program, sets a pretty high standard for the Grizzlies, roaming (and sprinting) the sidelines with such enthusiasm, it’s tough to imagine him ever allowing a drop in intensity on the field. And, being a former Spartan (class of 1997) and no stranger to success himself, he appreciates what’s ahead Friday night.

“It’s going to be a very big week for us. Cal High has never been in this situation,” Billeci said. “It’s validated the work we’ve done as a coaching staff and it’s very rewarding to see the growth.

“I’m a day-to-day guy and I run a pretty tight ship. Now we’re in an opportunity to play for a championship. It’s an extremely rare opportunity

Continued, page 26

WALLY’S WORLD Mike Wolcott MikeW@ SportStarsMag.com (925) 566-8500 Ext. 109

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

She said what?!?

“To be honest, the whole champion thing really hasn’t sunk in.

But when I see that banner, that will be the moment of realization that we truly are champions. I’m excited.

I’m excited for that more than anything.”

— Freedom High girls tennis captain,Alex Gerundio, on being part of the school’s first tennis team to win a Bay Valley Athletic League championship. Gerundio and her teammates also represent just the second girls sport to win a league championship since Freedom opened in 1996.The softball program has won multiple league titles.To read more about the Falcons’ championship tennis season, see page 10.

It’s another edition of Chatter, where we respond to the emails or Facebook comments from our readers. Join the conversation whenever you feel like it by emailing us at editor@sportstarsmag. com or posting to our Facebook page — after you officially “Like” us, of course.

■ I recently noticed your comment (“First Pitch”, Sept. 23) that cross country athletes “should not feel under appreciated”. While I do realize and appreciate that you were trying to be supportive of our sport, to say the sport is not under recognized is just untrue. I mean look at the amount of coverage that your own magazine gives weekly to football, versus the 2-3 pages cross country is lucky to snag. Of course I can’t pick on your publication in this. In this one issue you’ve already ran more coverage of cross country than we are likely to see this year in ESPN Rise. I see why this is: Football, to most people, is more of a spectator sport, and consequently more popular to those who aren’t actually athletes of that sport. But to act like this disparity does not exist is honestly a bit of a slap in the face. I would obviously love to see more cross country coverage, such as regional rankings or something ... P.S. I do actually enjoy your magazine, especially for its local focus. It is also much better than ESPN Rise, which seems to be giving more column inches to T-Pain and the latest video games than actual sports. — E-mail, Oct. 11 SportStars: First off, thanks for the compliments. Secondly, you’re TOTALLY right. We aren’t pretending that we don’t cover football more than cross country. As fall has gone on, we’ve tried to get a little bit of every sport some legitimate coverage. While we didn’t get to regional rankings, we do plan on giving those crazy hill-runners some more ink. In fact, you’ll notice more cross country right below this (total coincidence!). Also, in our remodeled GameDay section on Page 26, we feature the upcoming NCS championships Bob Larson — and don’t worry, we’ll have our people College Park’s there on Nov. 20.

Will Holland

Fifteen minutes for the mind to wander Here’s the Top Five things that we presume go through a cross-country runner’s head on the course. We presume, because, well, frankly, we could only run 3 miles if someone were chasing us with a knife: 1. Oh look. Mud. Oh, hey. More mud. Say. Would you look at that? Mud. I’ll be darned.

2. Do these shorts make my butt look big?

3. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right.

Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left. Right. Left.

Right. Left. Right.

4. To be, or not to be? That is the question. Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or to take arms against the sea of troubles, and by opposing, end them? To die: To sleep. To run.

5. Squirrel!

— Bill Kolb

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

9

How the Freedom High girls tennis team seemingly willed its way to the the program’s first league title

K

By Chace Bryson | Editor

endall Markham’s day of tennis is officially over.

She sits in the cafe at the Diamond Hills Sports Club and Spa, not even a 10 minute walk from the Freedom High campus where she’s currently a senior, and awaits her lunch order with some of her Falcons teammates.

A casual observer would have no way of knowing that Markham and her doubles partner Amanda Weaver had just narrowly missed posting the biggest first-round upset on the opening day of the Bay Valley Athletic League singles and doubles championships.

Though that’s what had just happened when a Heritage doubles team of Stefanie Johnson and Megan Cleek — a league tournament-inspired pairing of the Patriots’ No. 2 and No. 3 singles players for most of the year — escaped Markham and Weaver with a 10-8 pro-set victory.

Now, at the cafe, there’s no anguish or anger lingering in Markham’s expressions. There’s no visible indications of her re-playing the match in her head.

Kendall Markham is content.

10

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

Butch Noble

Falcons’ No. 2 singles player Nadean Hurtado lunges to return a shot during a quarterfinal of the BVAL singles tournament.

PREVIOUS PAGE: Kendall Markham was part of a doubles team which notched 13 victories in 2010.

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

She’s content because she competed.

“When I don’t win, I get really mad,” she says as her sliced turkey deli wrap is delivered to the table. “But after I calm down, I’m just happy that I got to play tennis.”

Perhaps that’s because she had only committed herself to playing competitive tennis a mere five months earlier. And when she made the girls tennis team in August, it was her first venture into Freedom athletics after already spending three years on campus.

Markham’s story is the perfect microcosm for a Falcons tennis team which wasn’t as talented as its predecessor, but came together — sometimes in odd circumstances — to claim the school’s first team tennis title. ◆◆◆ Steve Amaro can honestly say that he didn’t see it coming.

A season ago, behind USTA-ranked players Sarah Osborn and Emma Fister, Freedom’s girls tennis team took a third-place finish in the BVAL. That team, Amaro said, was arguably the best in Freedom history. And coming from Amaro — who has coached the Falcons’ boys tennis program since the school opened in 1996 and the girls program since 2000 — that statement carries some weight.

So after losing seven of his 12 starters from that team to graduation, the coach’s expectations weren’t extremely high.

And a 9-0 season-opening loss to Carondelet didn’t help matters.

In the second match of the season, Amaro was absent serving jury duty when he received an update from assistant coach Elisha Hall: Freedom was leading Granada.

“I remember how frustrated I was as a coach,” Amaro said after receiving the update. “As I thought it may

be one of the few wins we would get this season.”

Upon his release from jury duty, Amaro was on hand to see wins over Clayton Valley, Livermore and Ygnacio Valley.

“We were improving with every practice, but I couldn’t conceive we were on our way to a magical season,” the coach said.

Nicole Zanarini didn’t see it coming either.

Zanarini returned for her fourth year of varsity in 2010, and was a natural selection as the team’s No. 1 singles player after the graduations of Osborn and Fister.

“We’ve always strived to be league champs, and we’ve just barely missed it,” Zanarini said of the three previous Freedom teams she’d been a part of. “I think that of any of the years we would’ve done it, I didn’t expect it to be this year.”

So what happened?

Markham happened.

And Nadean Hurtado happened.

And Jenna Botorff happened.

The list could go on, but let’s get back to Markham for just one second. In her years prior to picking up the tennis racquet for the Falcons, she was a competitive horseback rider — not exactly a gateway sport to tennis.

“I was with her during tennis camp (over the summer),” team captain and No. 3 singles player Alex Gerundio recalled. “I was the one helping her and teaching her all the fundamentals, and then she just took off.

She’s amazing. This is probably only her fifth month playing tennis.”

Playing almost exclusively in the No. 3 doubles slot, Markham and Weaver won 13 matches together.

That included an 8-2 record in league play. Of the five

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

11

Freedom players asked to name the teammate who surprised them the most in 2010, three said Markham without hesitation.

“Kendall Markham left her mark here as a one-year tennis player,” Amaro said. “(She was) someone who genuinely set out a goal and did what she thought she could accomplish.”

While Markham and Weaver were raising eyebrows and shattering expectations in doubles play for the Falcons, Hurtado and Bortorff were doing the same in singles. In fact, both players — Hurtado at No. 2 and Bortorff at No. 5 — went a combined 20-0 in league play.

Chalk that up as another thing Amaro didn’t expect.

“Jenna going undefeated, I don’t think I could’ve predicted that,” Amaro said. “She’s just so competitive...And I can tell you that Nadean has truly found her passion. She wants to be the No. 1 singles player now. She didn’t want that before. She wasn’t sure what she wanted before, but I can see that she’s going to dedicate herself to be as great as she can become.” ◆◆◆ September 27 was the day that Amaro finally stopped being surprised.

Because Freedom and the rest of the Liberty Union School District take a two-week school break at the end of September, the Falcons chose to get a week’s worth of action out of the way with a doubleheader. They played Heritage at 9 a.m. that morning and won 6-3 before turning around and defeating rival Liberty 5-4 in the afternoon.

“Liberty was actually up in that match 4-2,” Amaro recalled. “And it looked like there were a few times where match point was there and Liberty was going to beat us, and it didn’t happen.”

12

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

Butch Noble

Jenna Botorff (left) went undefeated in BVAL singles play as Freedom’s No. 5. Meanwhile, Nicole Zanarini held down the No. 1 singles position for the Falcons and reached the semifinals of the BVAL Tournament.

One of Freedom’s victories in that defeat of Liberty came in the No. 1 doubles match. Falcons’ Kristen Quesada and Madison Mills defeated Alexis Esquivel and Hannah Fugazi 6-2, 4-6, 6-3.

Quesada had only played her first doubles match of the

season just three days earlier.

Originally slated to spend her season as the No. 1 singles player for the JV team, the junior spent the first half of the year filling in for various varsity singles players. And then on the last week of September, Quesada’s role changed when No. 1 doubles player Mansi Saini took a four-week absence to see her uncle get wed in India.

So after Quesada and Mills notched their first victory together in the No. 1 doubles slot, Amaro started to look at things a little differently.

“I would ask myself why are they doing this? What’s happening?,” he said. “And the most rationale answer I came up with is, why not?. The opportunity is there, reach out and grab it. And they did that.”

The Falcons went on to win six of their final seven league matches. The only hiccup coming in a 6-3 loss at Liberty on Oct. 19. Coming against a heated rival, it was a loss that could’ve derailed Freedom.

“They were upset,” Amaro said. “At the end of (the following day’s practice) I just told them we still have the ability to win this — to be the first tennis team in Freedom history, and the second girls sport in Freedom history to win a banner — and they really went after it.”

The team clinched its title in the final match of the season, dispatching Antioch 6-3 on Oct. 28. Zanarini shined, defeating Shannon West 6-3, 6-0 just weeks after West had topped her 6-1, 6-2. Hurtado and Botorff both won in straight sets and No. 4 singles player Amy Yonemoto (a senior) grabbed a three-set victory in her match.

The Falcons also notched two doubles wins in the clincher, including the No. 2 doubles match where Sierra Quinley and Randi Strain closed out BVAL play with a 9-1 record.

The title qualifies Freedom for North Coast Section Team Tennis tournament which begins on Nov. 9. They will assuredly go into the tournament as heavy underdogs to reach the final, let alone win it.

But Amaro and his Falcons players can attest, stranger things can happen. ✪ Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

Core stability and stretches for mountain biking A t the Sports Medicine Center we work with athletes form all sports and ability levels. From time to time we work with cyclists and mountain bikers, and we have found that the demands of these sports are quite different than most field and running sports.

When treating any athlete, we first look at the primary body position of the sport. For a mountain biker the primary body position is seated but leaning slightly forward with hands on a stable surface. This body position allows for maximal lower body power production, but also requires dynamic core control and upper body stability.

A dynamic core stability program is a key part of any training program for a mountain biker. Your core is made up of your abdominal muscles, oblique muscles and lower back muscles, and these muscles work together to stabilize the spine. These muscles are crucial for every athlete, but they are especially useful for a mountain biker.

The ability to stabilize your spine on the bike while your legs are moving is not only the key to avoiding obstacles, but also vitally important in being fast. I love using a front- plank pushup position to train mountain bikers how to stabilize in the position that they ride in.

A challenging exercise for cyclists and mountain bikers is a front plank hold with small leg lifts. While holding front plank position (elbows and toes on the floor) try five leg lifts with each leg, and then take a

break. Repeat this exercise for three sets with a one minute break in between. You should feel your abdominals and obliques working, and no pain in your lower back.

Due to the repetitive motion of the lower body joints and muscles used in cycling we often see tight and overused muscles in the legs of mountain bikers. The typically tight muscles of the lower body usually are the lateral quad, I.T. band and lateral hamstring. If these muscles are tight they may cause the patella (knee cap) to track improperly and cause knee pain.

A thorough flexibility program after riding — utilizing both static stretching and foam roller myofascial release — should help to increase flexibility to these tight muscles. The foam roller is a great tool to work out some of those knots in your quads and hamstrings that come from training and hard workouts. With the foam roller flat on the floor, lie down with the foam roller going directly across your thighs. Using your arms on the floor, slowly roll your body up and down 10 times using the pressure of the foam roller to massage your quads. Repeat this massage after every workout.

Good core exercises and a thorough flexibility program will help make you stronger and more agile the next time you ride.

Health Watch James Faison

James Faison is an athletic trainer and a certified strength and conditioning specialist at the Sports Medicine Center at Children’s Hospital Oakland. He is also head athletic trainer at Berkeley High.

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

13

Bob Larson

Cal High’s Cassandra Montell celebrates a point in a match at San Ramon Valley on Nov. 2. right: Grizzlies setter Ally Good ranks among the top in the state in season assist totals.

T

Seven seniors and one standout sophomore have California believing in an NCS championship run 14

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

By matt smith | Contributor

alented players and good coaching is usually the recipe for success at any level. However, one aspect in sports is often overlooked.

Belief.

A team that believes it is the best, often is, and the California High girls volleyball team is starting to figure that out.

“Heart, determination and belief. That’s all you need,” California coach Todd Baham said. “It’s all between the ears. I tell them every day that they need to believe they are the best team when they walk into a gym. And when they’ve done that, they’ve shown they can play with anybody.”

The East Bay Athletic League is loaded with talented players, like Caitlin DeWitt of Foothill, Kelly Shaver of Granada and Erin Sherwood of San Ramon Valley. But the one thing the Grizzlies might have working in their favor is depth.

“We just need to realize, as a whole, we’re the best team,” Cal’s senior middle hitter Lauren Beyerle said. “Most other schools just have one or two great players, as to where we are a really good team from top to bottom.”

That depth starts in the middle with Beyerle and her cohort, senior Michelle Watt. Baham likened his philosophy with his two seniors as a football coach would. You establish that you can control the game in Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

the middle, and use that to start going outside.

“I feel we have the two best middles in the section,” Baham said. “Michelle and Lauren are very talented and they are extremely smart volleyball players.”

Baham has no problem going to his middles at any time, and he isn’t the only one who thinks very highly of their ability. Very matter-of-factly, absent arrogance and cockiness, Beyerle won’t deny the suggestion that she’s part of the best tandem in the section.

“I would have to agree in the most humble way I can,” Beyerle said. “Michelle and I work well with our setters and we have a very strong connection.”

And when the outside starts to open up because of the attention being paid to the two girls in the middle, that is when Sabrina Clayton starts to make her presence felt.

Clayton — arguably the best player in the league behind DeWitt — is only a sophomore, and in fact, last year she was the first freshman Baham ever kept on varsity.

“It might sound like a cliché, but she’s a coach’s dream,” Baham said. “She’ll run through the wall for you and won’t even ask why you want her to. She is always positive. I’ve never seen her be negative about anything and she can make setters look good. It’s ridiculous how smart she is and how talented she is.”

In addition to being extremely talented and extremely coachable, Clayton gives her coach, teammates — and opposing players for that matter — even more reason to like her. Humility.

“She’s the most humble player I’ve ever met,” Beyerle said. “It’s inspirational to have a player like that on our team. Even the older girls look up to her.”

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

Having great hitters is one thing, but if the ball doesn’t get to them, there is not very much they can do to affect the outcome of a match. That is where a great ball handler comes into play, and California has exactly that with junior Ally Good.

Good is third in the North Coast Section in assists, and a major reason, perhaps the major reason, that the Grizzlies are having a resurgent season.

“She distributes the ball unbelievably well,” Baham said.

“We stress balance on the attack. It keeps teams on their toes so they can’t just focus on Sabrina.”

And so, it appears all of the pieces are in place. California has great hitting, both inside and outside, and they have a great setter. The defense/passing game is also well taken care of with senior captain Allison Simmons and freshman defensive specialist Caitlin Quindoy (the second freshman Baham has kept in 15 years of coaching) taking care of the back row.

Having all of these talented players is fine and dandy, but what might make the Grizzlies even scarier is a roster which is very senior-laden. Seven of the 14 players are seniors who are very, very hungry after a few years that would qualify as disappointing.

California went just 17-16 last year, good for most teams, but not good enough for the Grizzlies. They also have not been to the NCS playoffs since 2006. This year’s team is remedying both of those situations.

At 22-6, California has staked a claim to one of the top seeds in the NCS Division I playoffs.

“Finishing 17-16 last year built character for them,” Baham said. “And the senior leadership, that’s been night and

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

15

Sabrina Clayton (far left) has more than 350 kills on the season. In 2009, she became the first freshman to every play varsity for Grizzlies coach Todd Baham. Sarah Hultin (#12), driving home a kill against San Ramon Valley, is one of the seven seniors on the Grizzlies roster.

Bob Larson

day this year.”

With several players returning from last year’s team, one might wonder why the turnaround has been so dramatic.

With talented players already in place, one might assume the Grizzlies would have been good last year, and perhaps beyond.

So what made things click for Cal? Beyerle looks no further than this team gelling over the last year.

“I feel like we’ve become closer as a team than we were the last few years,” Beyerle said. “We’ve all improved so much over the last year and it has shown with our play on the court.”

Baham agrees with the court time being a big factor for this team.

“Experience has been key for this team,” Baham said.

“They all have a full club season under their belts and they

16

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

are just getting more comfortable with each other as the season goes along.”

And as the team has improved over the course of the season, it has remained near the top in the EBAL, easily the deepest and most competitive league in the entire East Bay. How competitive is the EBAL, exactly? Well, other than Foothill — which won the league with 12-2 mark — there are three teams, Cal included, that finished tied for second place.

The Grizzlies, along with San Ramon Valley and Amador Valley, all wound up 9-5 while Granada went 8-6. The Wolves and Dons have won the last two NCS Division I titles, while Granada has reached the finals the last two years.

Then there’s Carondelet, another team opposing squads could not go to sleep on. The Cougars might have just gone 6-8 in league play, but they beat Amador Valley, and re-

cently defeated San Ramon Valley twice — once in league and once at the Northgate Tournament.

Those matches are the only slip-ups of late for the Wolves, who head into the post-season after winning five straight league matches, which includes wins over Granada, California and Amador Valley.

Carondelet was also the only team to beat Foothill in league play this year, until Amador Valley topped the Falcons on the final day of the regular season.

“This is the EBAL,” Baham said. “We beat up on each other and then we go to playoffs. There’s a lot of parity in our league this year, which is always a good thing. It’s very Jekyll and Hyde this year.”

What that means is that anybody has a chance when the playoffs roll around.

“Foothill is certainly the team to beat,” Baham said.

“They’re at the top of the mountain and (Foothill coach) Dusty (Collins) has done a great job. They’re the favorite until somebody beats them, but San Ramon Valley has been the best team in the last couple of weeks.”

Foothill and San Ramon Valley may very well be the two favorites in the Division I playoffs which start Nov. 10, but California is a legitimate contender to make some noise.

The Grizzlies will be seeking their first playoff win in four years and their first semi-final appearance in well over 10 years.

“I think they could be a contender,” Carondelet coach Jerry Mix said. “They have two of the best middles and their defense is amazing. Todd and his staff have done a great job this year. I think if anyone can beat Foothill, it’s Cal High.”

And if the Grizzlies believe that, then don’t count them out. ✪ Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

Playoffs?!?

SportStars breaks down NCS girls volleyball

Six divisions of playoff girls volleyball gets underway on Nov. 10. Here’s a quick look at the top four divisions

Bob Larson photos

FAR LEFT: Christina Dejesus and her Salesian teammates are one of the top stories in Div. IV as they look to defend their title as the No. 3 seed. INSIDE LEFT: Rachel Linden and Las Lomas drew the No. 8 seed in Div. II and face a potential quarterfinal match with favorite and top seed, Bishop O’Dowd. INSIDE RIGHT: Shannon Boling and Carondelet went just 6-8 in EBAL play, but finished strong to pick up the No. 3 seed in Div. II. FAR RIGHT: Abbie Noland is part of a Campolindo team that is the unquestioned favorite in Div. III.

Division I

Division II

Division III

Division IV

TOP SEEDS: Foothill (31-4), Amador Valley (19-11), San Ramon Valley (26-7), Irvington (23-5), California (22-6), Granada (22-8) THE FAVORITE: Foothill is certainly the favorite. The Falcons had not lost to a North Coast Section Division I team until a five-game loss to Amador Valley in their regular-season finale, and they feature the NCS’ most feared outside hitter in Caitlin DeWitt.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: Watch out for Irvington. The Vikings (23-5) earned the No. 4 seed and boast Katie Lopez, probably the best middle hitter in the NCS. They also have shown an ability to hang with EBAL teams, as evidenced by a win over California.

THE TOP STORYLINE: It’s gotta be California, which hadn’t gone to the NCS tournament since 2006. They enter as a No. 5 seed with a legitimate chance to reach the semis. Top hitter Sabrina Clayton (just a sophomore) is likely going to reach the 400-kill mark for the season by the end of the first round.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: Foothill d. San Ramon Valley 3-1.

TOP SEEDS: Bishop O’Dowd (2413), Redwood-Larkspur (30-6), Carondelet (21-13).

THE FAVORITE: Until Bishop O’Dowd gets beat, the Dragons are the favorite, in any division they play in. After three straight Div. III titles, O’Dowd was forced to move up, and will see top competition from Redwood and Carondelet.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: How about Washington? The Huskies have a chance to make some waves in Div. II, because of their stud outside hitter Konami Yokoyama. Washington has six wins over Division I playoff teams, and could be quite a surprise to Redwood in the second round.

THE TOP STORYLINE: Carondelet is a great story. Up and down for most of the year, the Cougars have turned it on at the right time with a 6-1 showing at the Northgate Tournament, two recent wins over San Ramon Valley, and a win over Amador Valley.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: Bishop O’Dowd d. Redwood 3-2.

TOP SEEDS: Campolindo (27-3), Drake-San Anselmo (32-5), Miramonte (24-12), Albany (27-5).

THE FAVORITE: Without a doubt, Campolindo, which should also be a favorite in the state playoffs, should it get that far. The Cougars boast a ton of balance, a lot of size, and are capable of beating teams in multiple ways.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: Keep an eye on Drake. Four of the Pirates’ five losses are to Redwood, which is the No. 2 seed in Div. II. The only other loss was to Branson. Drake nearly knocked off Bishop O’Dowd in last year’s finals, and could very well give Campolindo a hard-fought match. Drake knocked out Campolindo a year ago.

THE TOP STORYLINE: Albany being the No. 4 seed is certainly the top story.

The Cougars are the only Div. III team in the Bay Shore Athletic League, so normally they are seeded in the 6-8 range, but this year’s team is a threat in the Div. III bracket. Wins over Northgate, Las Lomas and Liberty show just that.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: Campolindo d. Drake 3-1.

TOP SEEDS: Marin Catholic-Kentfield (25-13), Berean Christian (24-3), Salesian (24-8), St. Patrick-St. Vincent (25-9).

THE FAVORITE: Marin Catholic is usually considered the favorite. As the top seed after playing an incredibly difficult schedule, one would have to go with the Wildcats.

THE BRACKETBUSTER: Berean Christian could be a team that just goes through and takes care of business, quickly and quietly. The Eagles have only lost to Carondelet, Miramonte and Heritage, which are all playoff teams from upper divisions.

THE TOP STORYLINE: Try Salesian.

A year after winning an NCS title, the defending champs saw one of the East Bay’s best players, Malina Terrell, graduate and move on to the Univ. of San Francisco. The Pride almost didn’t miss a beat, taking second in the BSAL on their way to a No. 3 seed.

CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTION: Berean Christian d. Marin Catholic 3-2.

— Matt Smith

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

17

Breaking down mistakes made in speed, agility training W hile spending a recent weekend in Lousiville for an International Youth Conditioning Association conference, I found myself speaking to IYCA founder, Brian Grasso, about what he feels are the biggest mistakes in speed and agility training.

Upon returning we exchanged emails and I asked him if he could summarize his take on the biggest mistakes made in this area. He responded to me by referring back to something he wrote for the IYCA

18

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

website last summer. Here’s his response.

Brian Grasso: I can loop speed and agility training mistakes into the same answer quite easily.

It is customary to see young athletes being taught and drilled on how to run as fast as possible in a straight line.

Coaches spend hours teaching the mechanics of ‘linear speed’. Arm drive, hip drive, ankle push, and forward lean – all the usual suspects. Whether on a high speed treadmill, gymnasium floor or football field,

anywhere you go, you’ll likely see coaches teaching the techniques of running fast in a straight line moving forward.

Now, I don’t really have any fundamental issue with respect to this style of training. I could (and will) argue that virtually every sport is played in a non-linear format and so spending time on the mechanics of an exercise that a young athlete won’t typically ever need in a sporting situation is paramount to a large waste of time.

But young athletes need to be exposed to as much training stimulus as possible – in all formats. In that, no training style should ever be considered ‘not worth the time’ when we’re talking about preadolescent or high school-aged athletes.

But the fact that linear speed training is both taught and drilled INSTEAD of more functional and useable styles of speed and

Training Time Tim Rudd for IYCA

agility work is where I draw the concern.

Football, baseball, soccer, basketball, volleyball – you name the sport. Very seldom does a young athlete need to sprint forward with proper form; and they almost never hit ‘top-end-speed’ for any length of time. If you look at any of the sports from a positional standpoint, that reality is even less likely.

Sports are multi-directional and varying in speed. Young athletes must be taught how to move efficiently and quickly at angles (not just forward), and be ingrained with the knowledge and ability of how to decelerate (stop) and shift (change directions) as fast as possible.

Sport speed isn’t about straight lines. It’s about angular quickness and the ability to re-accelerate.

The IYCA enhances the knowledge of youth sports/fitness professionals and volunteers throughout the world via intensive educational opportunities as well as continuing education requirements. To learn more, visit www.iyca.org.

Tim Rudd is an IYCA specialist in youth conditioning (level 3), speed and agility (level 2), and nutrition specialist (level 1).

You can contact him with questions or feed- back at tim@fit2thecore.com.

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

RED ZONE

What happens when the underdog goes unbeaten? Ask Pinole Valley James Lewis has been a touchdown-scoring machine at running back for the Spartans this season.

Here he breaks loose for one of his three secondhalf scoring runs against El Cerrito on Nov. 5.

Bob Larson

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

By Chace Bryson | Editor A football game ended and a concert broke out.

The Pinole Valley High marching band was letting it all hang out, and the Spartans football players were taking in the scene with the exact same look on their faces.

inside look: pinole valley It was the look of accomplishment. A look of relief.

It was the look of champions.

That’s what they were after a 49-13 win over visiting El Cerrito — clinching the program’s first Alameda Contra Costa Athletic League title since 2006.

The Nov. 5 game started out a little ominous for the Spartans as the Gauchos played them even through the majority of the first half. Only a 33-yard touchdown pass from Tay Holley to Nehemiah Winston with 26 seconds to go in the half managed to send Pinole Valley into the intermission with an advantage.

The second half was vintage Spartans, though.

Shifty running back James Lewis scored on touchdown runs of 10, 8 and 56 yards. And a suffocating defense

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

19

RED ZONE led by seniors Travis Feeney and Antoine Davis held El Cerrito to just 60 yards from scrimmage.

The victory kept Pinole Valley unbeaten for the season at 8-0-1, but it didn’t leave the team any less hungry.

“We’ve just been the underdog so much, we’re just full of motivation,” Feeney said afterward. “We want to prove to everyone that we are the team to beat. I love being the underdog because it makes us work way harder.”

Feeney and the rest of the Spartans seniors have been harboring motivation since their season ended in 2009 with a 61-7 loss to Eureka in the first round of the North Coast Section Division II playoffs.

“Our seniors kind of re-committed themselves,” Pinole Valley coach Steve Alameda said. “We had a bad ending last year, and our senior leadership in the offseason set a good standard for the junior underclassmen. We kind of reproduced the blueprint we’ve had all along, tweaked it a little bit, and ended up pretty successful. It’s nice to be champs again.”

The Spartans are all but assured a top three seed when the NCS Division II playoff field is selected on Nov. 14. And unlike last season, thanks to their league champion status, they will have the opportunity to host at least one playoff game, if not more.

Playoff football is played at a different speed, but one things always translates well in the postseason — defense. Pinole Valley has one of the best in the East Bay as long as Feeney and Davis are healthy and on the prowl.

“We’ll go in and see who can get the hardest hit,” Davis said. “And it Travis got a harder hit than I did, I’m

coaches poll

Bob Larson

Travis Feeney (right) locks up with El Cerrito’s John McDermott. Feeney, who is committed to play at the Univ. of Arizona, has been a dominant force at middle linebacker for Pinole Valley this year.

The SportStars Top 10 coaches poll is vot-

ed on by coaches throughout the East Bay.

Coaches vote for their top 10 teams, with 10 points for a first-place vote, nine for second,

going to be mad until I get one. And that’s how it is with the whole defense.”

Everything continues to revolve around respect for the Spartans, though. They won’t feel they have it until they’re the last team standing.

“People see the games and the scores and think that this is a good team,” Davis said. “But we haven’t even reached our maximum potential yet. If we do, then everybody will be amazed at how good we really are.” ✪

etc. Only Division I-III schools are considered.

Records are through Nov. 7.

Team (first-place votes)....Record.....Points

1. De La Salle (9)................. 9-0................... 90 2. California.......................... 9-0................... 81 3. Monte Vista...................... 6-3................... 64 4. Concord........................... 8-1................... 62 5. McClymonds.................... 9-0................... 44 6. Encinal............................. 8-1................... 22 7. Foothill............................. 5-4................... 21 8. Granada........................... 5-4................... 20 9. San Ramon Valley........... 5-4................... 19 10. Pinole Valley.................. 8-0-1................ 18 On the bubble: Heritage (7-2) 15 points,

Miramonte (8-1) 11.

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

20

RED ZONE

Pirates refuse to sink after an 0-5 start to their season By erik stordahl | SportStars The Pittsburg Pirates had been here before.

Sluggish play characterized the first half of their Nov. 5 game against visiting Freedom — just like it did over their first five games of the 2010 season.

“We were killing ourselves with bonehead mistakes,” Pirates coach Victor Galli said of his team’s 0-5 start to the season. “We had the lead late in some of those games and were two scores up on McClymonds (before losing).”

Galli knows he was putting his team through the ringer with an intense nonleague schedule that featured Foothill, McClymonds, Monte Vista and Berkeley.

But something was missing.

“I knew I put together a tough schedule,” confesses Galli. “I thought we would be 4-1. But there wasn’t a sense of urgency (from our players); there was no fire.”

Finally, with their backs against the wall, the Pirates found that fire in their league-opener against a Deer Valley squad which rolled into the game with a 4-1 record and thoughts of defending its Bay Valley Athletic League title of 2009. Pittsburg reeled off 415 yards of

inside look: pittsburg total offense and rolled to a 47-12 defeat of the Wolverines.

“That was our ‘get-well’ game,” explains Galli. “In my coaching career, that was one of my finest victories.”

Back to the Freedom game, Pittsburg had its back against the wall again. The Falcons built a 14-0 lead as the Pirates turned the ball over twice.

“We didn’t really make any adjustments (at the half),” explained quarterback and wide receiver, Julius Mozee. “We just told each other in the locker room that we’ve got to play hard and this may be our last chance to play on this home field.”

Mozee took matters into his own hands in the third quarter as he scored on a 67-yard touchdown pass from backup quarterback Malik Watson on just the third play of the second half. He then scored on a two-point conversion run to tie the game at 14-14.

Both teams traded scores and Freedom still had its chance to win the game as it set itself up for a 31-yard field goal with with 37 seconds left. However, Robert Melena’s kick sailed wide right.

Butch Noble

Pittsburg’s Malik Watson (8) is part of a two-man QB rotation for the Pirates. He tossed a 67-yard TD pass in a Nov. 5 win over Freedom.

“I didn’t even want to look at the final kick,” Galli said.

The victory assured the Pirates at least a share of their third BVAL crown in four years. They will get an automatic berth to the North Coast Section Division I playoffs where they will aim for a third consecutive championship game appearance.

“We really need to put time in at practice where we can eliminate all the mistakes,” Mozee said. “But this game showed our will and our determination to win.” ✪

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

21

tee2green

Lowering scores always starts with the short game

In the past two issues, we have covered two of the three parts of what to practice when you go to the range. The third part is to spend the time on the area most responsible for your scores and — your short game.

Spending at least one third of your total time in this area will surely affect the scores you shoot. By hitting your shots closer to the hole, you will convert more putts and lower your scores in the process. It is a simple formula to understand, but you need to be disciplined enough to break away from the long game and devote the necessary time to chipping, pitching, lob shots and your sand game.

The rule of thumb to follow is putt whenever you can, chip when you can’t putt and pitch only when you have to. Program your eye to see the shot that reduces the risk and allows some margin for error while still getting the ball close to the hole.

This visualizing of the shot before you hit it is a must. Picture the ball landing on the green close to the edge and rolling the rest of the way to the hole.

This is what most great short-game players have in common.

The chip is just a putt with a little air time, minimizing air and maximizing roll. Any club can work with

Dave De Long

notes from the pros some practice but you want to make sure you lead with the handle and do not allow the club head to pass the hands. Playing the ball back in the stance helps you to accomplish this, as well as moving closer to the ball. I even grip down to help me get closer to the ball and to stand the shaft up more vertically while keeping approximately 75 percent of my weight on my left leg. (I play golf right handed.)

Flipping the hands is the most common fault I see with golfers who struggle in this area.

I also see players not playing the ball far enough back in their stance.

Get kids to seek true competition Nothing frustrates me more (in youth sport) than the phrase, “everybody’s a winner!”

This sums all that is wrong and unrealistic with youth sport. This phrase instills a mindset that no matter what you do, you will always be considered to be on top. The harsh reality is the world doesn’t work in the “everybody’s a winner” universe. The world demands focused effort and a constant vigilance for

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

Gary Xavier

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

23

tee2green self-improvement.

This is where youth sport can not only create a whole new mindset amongst Generation Now, but change the landscape that has become a politicalcorrectness nightmare.

Now, my intention is not to get political or create a social movement with my remarks. However, if you are a parent or an adult, I’d like you to think long and hard if the world has given you any favors for mediocre effort?

Many youth sports organizations involving golf, martial arts and baseball — among others — have lowered their expectations.

True competition brings out abilities within children that you could never dream they had. Competition gives them a goal, a benchmark. It lets them know who the winners are and what they have to do to become one. Next time you drop your son or daughter off for martial arts class or baseball practice, watch very carefully for the indicators that will leave your child being exposed to an environment teaching, “don’t worry buddy, you’ll always be a winner.”

Try to look for organizations that not only award physical abilities, but for character development. Look for organizations that take a vested interest in improving a player instead of just casting them aside as a player who could never do what they have to do to win.

If we just wait, maybe all of our children will taste the sweet feeling of victory because they earned it. ✪ Notes From The Pros is a regular feature compiled by Gary Xavier (Northern California Junior Golf sports administrator) and Dave DeLong (PGA professional and director of instruction at Boundary Oak GC). Contact them at the following addresses: ddelongolf@aol.com or gxavier@pgahq.com.

first tee, firsthand

Making the 4 R’s work in the classroom One of the first lessons taught in the First Tee is the “4 R’s”: Relax, Replay, Get Ready, Redo. Though it is explained as a way to think about a previous shot and assess the next one, I have used the “4 R’s” to help me in my schoolwork as well.

If you are like me (and every other high school student in the nation) you have had your fair share of bad tests.

24

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

Eddie Estrada

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

tee2green Many students could look at a poor test grade and not really understand how to work to make the next test better. Use a tip from the First Tee and use the “4 R’s”.

Relax: Don’t freak out over the bad grade. It happens to everyone. Take a deep breath and move on.

Replay: How did you study for your test? What parts from studying stuck with you? Which parts didn’t?

Get Ready: Use the techniques that worked best for retaining information and create a study schedule.

Redo: Here it is, Test day! Relax and take the test.

You have prepared well and will be ready to go!

Most lessons taught in the First Tee program can be used in many aspects of your daily life, from golf, to school, to problems with friends.

Put these lessons in your toolbox, for you never know when one can come in handy. ✪

twenty-four7 BASEBALL Through Nov. 15: Dublin — Registration for the 2011 Regular Season is now open. For Dublin Little League.

Discounted registration through Nov. 15. 925-417-4728, registration@dublinlittleleague. org; www.eteamz.com/dublinll.

Through Nov. 27: Concord — Baseball is fun clinic.

Late morning Saturdays @ Woodside Elementary School.

Ages 8-14. Registration: http:// walnutcreeksportsleague.com.

Through Dec. 31: Antioch — Batting Cages. For all ages at Golf N Games Family Fun Center. 925-754-5053, www. golfngames.com.

Dec. .8-Jan. 12: Antioch — Antioch Little League’s Spring 2011 Season Registration.

6-8 p.m. Dec. 8 and Jan 12; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Dec. 11 and Jan. 8 and 15. All at Golf N Games. 925-431-8478, www. antiochlittleleague.com.

BOWLING Through Dec. 31: Concord

— Parties for kids at Clayton Valley Bowl. 925-689-4631, BowlClayton@Astound.net; www. claytonvalleybowl.com.

CHEER Through Oct. 28: Antioch — All Out Sports League’s Cheer Signups. Online @ www.leaguelineup.com. Casey, 510-282-4986, casey_c@ alloutsportsleague.com.

Through Dec. 31: Walnut Creek — WCYF Marauders Cheer.

Open for registration in various divisions. Art Thoms, thoms3@

ifn.net, 925-786-0721; www. wcyfmarauders.com.

COMMUNITY EVENTS Nov. 13-14: Santa Clara — Silicon Valley Ski and Snowboard Festival. At Santa Clara Convention Center. 50%-off festival tickets available at Sports Basement, Walnut Creek. 530581-0553, www.snowbomb.com.

Nov. 19: Walnut Creek — Early Thanksgiving Dinner. 5-8 p.m. at Boundary Oak Golf Course.

Reservations: 925-934-43600, Ext. 23; www.playboundaryoak.com.

Eddie Estrada is a senior at De La Salle High. He has been a member of The First Tee Contra Costa for six years. Contact him at eddieestrad@gmail.com.

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

25

twenty-four7 Nov. 27: San Leandro — 26th Annual St. Leanders Sports Collectors Show. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. @ Ryan-O’Connell Hall. 73 dealer tables, sports memorabilia (1880s-2010s), vendors, family atmosphere. Mark Macrae, 510538-6245.

Dec. 3-6: Martinez — Holiday Frolic & Snow Park. For all ages, downtown. A winter wonderland with real snow. 925-228-3577, www. mainstreetmartinez.org.

FOOTBALL Through Dec. 31: Walnut Creek — WCYF Marauders. Open for registration in the Midget division.

Art Thoms, thoms3@ifn.net, 925786-0721; www.wcyfmarauders. com.

FUNDRAISER Dec. 3: Concord — CYC Texas Hold’Em Poker Night Fundraiser.

6:30 p.m. @ The Big C Athletic Club. Danny Pease, 925-5667568, dpease@cycmail.org; www. communityyouthcenter.com.

Jan. 28-30, 2011: Oakley — Runnin’ Deep Flag Football.

At Freedom Basin. Ages 6-16; 5 on 5, 7 on 7. Contact Coach Mike Weisenberg, 925-625-2222, DiabloFootball@hotmail.com; www.DiabloFootball.com.

April 29-May 1, 2011: Williams, AZ — Hike for Shelter, Inc.: Conquer The Canyon. 16-week training begins in January.

Karen Leffler, 925-323-2996, hike@shelterincofccc.org; www. shelterincofccc.org/hike.htm.

GOLF Through Dec. 11: Concord — Changing Kids’ Lives through the Game of Golf. Presented

by The First Tee Contra Costa.

For boys and girls 5-18 @ Diablo Creek. 925-686-6262, Ext. 0; www.thefirstteecontracosta.org.

RACE Nov. .25: Walnut Creek — 18th Annual Walnut Creek Sports & Fitness Club Turkey Trot.

Kicks off at 8 a.m. @ Civic Park.

Details & registration: www.wcsf. net.

Through Dec. 31: Berkeley — Junior Academy. Ages 5U at Tilden Park Golf Course. 510-848-7373, doi@ tildenparkgc.com; www. thegolflearningcenters.com/ tildenpark.

SOFTBALL Dec. 12-13: Antioch — East Bay Vipers Softball Association 2010 Spring Tryouts. At Antioch Community Park, James Donlon Blvd. Martin Soares, 925-383-4657, Martin.

Soares@sharpusa.com; www. eteamz.com/eastbayvipers.com.

MARTIAL ARTS Through Dec. 31: Concord — Kids Karate LVL 1 at InShape Health Club. Fees and registration: 925-602-5600, www. inshapeclubs.com.

Jan. .29: Walnut Creek — 24th Annual USKS “Just for Kicks” Benefit Show. 6-8 p.m. at Berean Christian High School. 925-682-9517, www. usksmartialarts.com.

SWIM Through Dec. 31: Concord — Swim Classes in Heated Outdoor Pool for all ages at In-shape. Fees and registration: 925-602-5600, www. inshapeclubs.com.

TENNIS Through Dec. 31: Pleasanton

— Youth Lessons. Ongoing.

Bronze Team, ages 7-18; Silver Team, ages 9-16; Gold Team, ages 12-18. Info: 925-931-3449, www.lifetimetennis.com.

Through Dec. 31: Walnut Creek — Youth Lessons. Ongoing.

Beginning to intermediate lessons, ages 7-15. Info: 925931-3449, www.lifetimetennis. com.

Through Dec. 31: Richmond — Tennis Instruction for Youth. Classes Mon.-Thur. at Nichol Park. Info: Recreation Department, 510-620-6793; www.ci.richmond.ca.us.

TRACK & FIELD/X-COUNTRY Through Dec. 31: Concord — Sport-Specific Training - Track & Field. At East Bay Sports Academy. For student athletes. Schedules and fees: 925-680-9999, info@ eastbaysportsacademy.com; www.eastbaysportsacademy. com.

WALLY’S WORLD continued from page 8 — two 9-0 teams playing for a championship.”

Quarterback Drew Reil is a rare story himself. Never a starter before this season, he’s playing like a seasoned pro for the hottest show in town.

“Oh, man, being 9-0 and going against another team that’s 9-0, it’s ridiculous,” he said.

Almost as ridiculous as his night against the Falcons. In a true rarity, Reil didn’t throw a single pass that hit the ground. He was 14-for-15 for 321 yards and five touchdowns, with one pass intercepted.

“A ball didn’t hit the ground — that’s ridiculous,” he continued. “But there was a pick.

If we want to beat De La Salle, that pick can’t happen.”

Indeed. When Pittsburg beat De La Salle in 1991, they did it by avoiding turnovers and dominating time of possession, especially in the second half. Even that was barely enough.

But in this ridiculous kind of year, who can say it can’t happen again?

Reil came up with the kind of play in the third quarter that proved anything’s possible.

In one of the classic after-fumble pile-ups that seemed to include every player on the field, it was Reil who somehow entered the pile, got to the bottom and then walked out with the ball, screaming “That’s our ball!” as the rest of the pile stayed more or less intact.

“Drew just amazes me,” Billeci said. “When he came out of the pile with that ball ....’’

Yes, it was ridiculous. Nobody could have seen it coming, just like few saw the Grizzlies winning their first nine games en route to perhaps the most-anticipated EBAL title game in recent memory.

Just like few people gave that orange-and-black-team across the bay much of a chance.

Orange and black. How in the world can it be so hard to miss? ✪

26

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

game day Mark your calendars. Put the dates in your iPhones. Just don’t miss these games

Bob Larson

water polo

FOOTBALL

November 12 — FOOTBALL De La Salle at California, 7 p.m.

It’s just how football fans like it.

One game. Two undefeated teams.

League championship on the line.

The Spartans haven’t lost an East Bay Athletic League game since joining the league in 2008. However, the last time they traveled to the home of the Grizzlies they just narrowly escaped with a 21-14 victory. If Cal plans to shock the world, its defense will need to contain Spartans QB Bart Houston (pictured) and RB Lucas Dunne.

Jonathan Hawthorn

November 13 — WATER POLO NCS Championships @ Soda Aquatic Center, TBA Four new North Coast Section champions will be crowned in Moraga. Monte Vista continues to be heavy favorites to win the Division I girls title, while Connor Mattox (pictured) and Acalanes will try to take their No. 1 seed to the Division I boys final. Las Lomas has the inside track to both Division II crowns.

cross country volleyball

Bob Larson

November 20 — VOLLEYBALL NCS Championships @ various sites Six different title matches will be played, but the highest-profile final will be in Division I where Caitlin DeWitt (pictured) will try to lead Foothill to its first championship since 2006. The Falcons finished runners-up to Amador Valley in 2009.

To find out where each final is being played, check the NCS website at www.cifncs.org.

November 29 — CROSS COUNTRY NCS Championships @ Hayward High, 8:30 a.m.

The endurance elite take the course for 10 championship races, beginning with the Division III boys race at 8:30 and concluding with the Division II girls at 1 p.m.

Grace Orders (pictured) and the Campolindo girls should be heavy favorites in the Div. III girls race on the heels of their 1-2-3 finish in the Diablo Foothill Athletic League championships.

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

Bob Larson

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

27

impulse KABOOM! Remember those days of wasting your allowance at the arcade playing NBA Jam for hours on end? And remember when it was finally released on Super Nintendo and Sega Genesis? Weren’t those mega-awesome cheats like playing as Bill Clinton and Al Gore the coolest thing ever?

Ah, those were the days. If you have no clue what we’re talking about, it’s because you probably weren’t even born yet. Sigh. Enough of the nostalgia, NBA Jam is back and better than ever. It’s got slick graphics and new players but still has that same, unreal sense of jumping fifty feet in the air for a “boomshakalaka” slam or busting treys until you torch the nets. It never gets old. Buy yours now on Nintendo Wii for $39.99.

Available November 15 for $49.99 on XBOX 360 and PS3. Hit up www. easports.com for more info

Do you see what I see?

See you on Monday Parents: Racking your brain for the perfect weekend getaway? We’ve got just the place in mind: Greenhorn Creek Resort. Located just two hours from the Bay Area, Greenhorn Creek is practically a hop, skip and a jump away. It’s got an award-winning golf course tucked away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. When you’re finished playing the front nine, hop in the car and take the short drive up the mountains then ski down the soft, powdery slopes of Bear Valley. Give them a call or check ‘em out online for rates and availability. (209) 729-8111. www.GreenhornCreek.com

28

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

Now we can play ball in the house Now that the rain is finally here and it doesn’t look like it’s leaving anytime soon, it’s time to play sports indoors within the cozy confines of San Ramon Sports. They’ve got a state-of-the-art indoor soccer field with turf grass installed by 1st Impression Lawns & Greens, batting cages and the ultimate party zone.

Give ‘em a ring to find out more about special deals and upcoming leagues.

Contact them at (925) 831-9050 • 2411 Old Crow Canyon Road, San Ramon, CA 94583. For more info on 1st Impression Lawns & Greens call Jason at (925) 899-8712.

Watch movies how they were meant to be seen with the help of our friends at Oakley. Their brand-spankin’ new 3D GASCAN glasses enhance your eyesight with the three C’s: clarity, color and comfort. Put these glasses on in the theater or at home and you’ll notice the difference immediately. These shades aren’t meant for normal outdoor use, just hardcore movie-watching. So get your popcorn, candy bar, giant soda, Oakley 3D GASCAN glasses and you’re good to go. The latter might cause you to mow a couple hundred lawns but we think it’s worth it. Check out www.oakley.com to learn more.

New season, new threads Is your season already a lost cause?

There’s still a way to give your fans something to cheer about by donning ultra-fresh uniforms. Hit up Aviva Design and they’ll hook you up with stylish uniforms that are comfortable and cool. Who knows? It might cause you to hurdle over that psychological hump and put a few games in the win column. Aviva is SportStars’ Apparel partner and you can learn more about them and our other sponsors on our Community Partners page on our website. Call Aviva now and you’ll get 10 percent off your first order! (925) 946-1566. www.avivadesign.com.

— Compiled by Erik Stordahl Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com

photo finish

Few sports bring out the celebrations like girls volleyball. For San Ramon Valley’s Elizabeth Schmahl (14), Meleah Christensen (11), Jane Humphrey (2) and Jenessa Hutchins (6) all it took for some good ol’ hysterical jubilation was the scoring of a clutch point in the Wolves’ Nov. 2 East Bay Athletic League match against visiting Cal. San Ramon Valley won the match in four games.

Photo by bob larson

Want to submit your pic for Photo Finish?

Send it to us at editor@SportStarsMag.com Photos must be 300 dpi and at least 10 inches wide in the jpeg format.

Please identify every person in the photo and include your contact information.

Support Your Local Business • Say You Found Them In SportStars™

November 11, 2010

SportStars™

29

BigBikeEntryform

Check boxes of any advertisers from which you’d like more info, then mail or fax it to us! Or drop it off at the SportStars office or the Walnut Creek Sports Basement! ❒❒ 101.7 KKIQ/92.1 KKDV . . . . . . . . . . 13

❒❒ Cheers Gym. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

❒❒ Farmers Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

❒❒ San Ramon Golf Club. . . . . . . . . . . . 23

❒❒ Absorber, The. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

❒❒ Clayton/Countrywood Fitness Centers. . 25

❒❒ Fit 2 The Core. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

❒❒ Scandia Family Center. . . . . . . . . . . 25

❒❒ Aviva Promotional Products. . . . . . . . . 18

❒❒ Club Sport Renaissance. . . . . . . . . . . 11

❒❒ Franklin Canyon Golf Course. . . . . . 24

❒❒ Simply Selling Shirts. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

❒❒ Big C Athletic Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

❒❒ Community Youth Center. . . . . . . . . 19

❒❒ Greenhorn Creek Golf Club . . . . . . . 24

❒❒ Smokin Okie’s BBQ Joint. . . . . . . . . 25

❒❒ Big O Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

❒❒ Crow Canyon Country Club . . . . . . . 23

❒❒ Heavenly Greens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

❒❒ SportForm. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

❒❒ Bladium Sports & Fitness Clubs. . . . 25

❒❒ De La Salle Radio. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

❒❒ Jory’s Flowers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

❒❒ SportStars Big Bike Giveaway. . . . . 30, 31

❒❒ Bob Larson Sports Photography. . . . 20

❒❒ Dave DeLong School of Golf . . . . . . 24

❒❒ Kinders BBQ. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

❒❒ Tilden Park Golf Course. . . . . . . . . . 24

❒❒ Boys & Girls Clubs/Diablo Valley . . . 21

❒❒ eTeamSponsor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

❒❒ Lone Tree Golf & Event Center. . . . . 23

❒❒ UFC gym. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

❒❒ Brenden Theatres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

❒❒ East Bay Sports Academy . . . . . . . . 12

❒❒ Massage Envy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

❒❒ Walnut Creek Sport & Fitness. . . . . . 15

❒❒ Championship Athletic Fundraising. . . . 26

❒❒ Excellence in Sport Performance. . . . 16

❒❒ Odwalla. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

❒❒ Wooden It Be Nice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Address__________________________________________________________ City____________________________ State____________ Zip _______

cial rat

HOT DEAL!

e!

e Name________________________________________________ Phone_______________________ E-mail________________________________________ Sp ❒❒ Enter me to win! But no subscription at this time! ❒❒ Hey, while I’m at it, sign me up for a subscription! For 24 issues, U.S. 3rd class $24 (allow 3 weeks for delivery).

Prizes subject to change. Entries must be received by Oct. 31 ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ ❒❒ Expiration date_______________ Card #_______________________________ Total___________ Signature________________________________________ 30

SportStars™

November 11, 2010

Mail: SPORTSTARS Interactive, 5356 Clayton Road, Suite 222, Concord, CA 94521 • Fax: 925.566-8507

Upload photos and team stats! www.SportStarsMag.com